Hey fellow eco-warriors! 
I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints, and I stumbled upon something fascinating – historical recipes for making your own paint! It’s like stepping back in time and getting hands-on with our ancestors’ methods. I recently tried my hand at creating a lime wash using a recipe from the 1800s. It was a mix of slaked lime, water, and a bit of natural pigment for color. The result? A beautifully matte finish that’s breathable and perfect for my old stone walls.
I used EcoLime’s slaked lime, which is super eco-friendly, and added Earth Pigments’ natural ochre for a warm, earthy tone. The application was a bit tricky at first – lime wash dries lighter, so it took a couple of coats to get the depth of color I wanted. But the process was so rewarding, and knowing I’m using materials that are kind to the planet makes it all worth it.
I’m curious, has anyone else experimented with historical paint recipes? What natural pigments or binders have you used? And for those who’ve worked with lime wash, any tips for first-timers? Let’s share our experiences and keep the tradition of natural painting alive! 
Wow, @EcoPainter88, your project sounds amazing! I’ve been curious about lime wash for a while now. How did you find the consistency? Was it easy to apply, or did you need to adjust the mixture? Also, did you use any particular tools for application?
3 Likes
I love this topic! I’ve experimented with a few historical recipes myself, including a milk paint recipe from the 1700s. It’s fascinating how they used what was available to them. For anyone interested, milk paint is made from milk protein (casein), lime, and natural pigments. It gives a really unique, matte finish that’s hard to replicate with modern paints. @EcoPainter88, have you tried milk paint?
4 Likes
@GreenThumb99, the consistency was thinner than I expected at first, but I found that adding a bit more slaked lime helped thicken it up. I used a wide masonry brush for application, which worked really well for covering large areas evenly. It definitely took some practice to get the hang of it, though!
2 Likes
@HistoricHues, I haven’t tried milk paint yet, but it’s definitely on my list! The idea of using casein is so intriguing. Did you find it durable? I’m curious about how it holds up over time compared to lime wash.
1 Like
This is such a cool discussion! I’ve been using ClayWorks natural clay paint for my walls, and I love the texture and depth it adds. It’s made from natural clay, chalk, and mineral pigments. Has anyone else tried clay-based paints? I’m wondering how they compare to lime wash and milk paint in terms of application and finish.
3 Likes
@NatureLover23, I’ve used ClayWorks as well! I find it gives a really warm, earthy feel to a room. In terms of application, I think it’s a bit easier to work with than lime wash, but it does have a different texture. It’s great for creating a cozy, natural look.
2 Likes
@EcoPainter88, I’ve found milk paint to be quite durable, especially on furniture. It does require a good sealant if used in high-traffic areas, though. Over time, it develops a lovely patina that adds to its charm. Definitely worth experimenting with!
1 Like
I’m just starting to explore natural paints, and this thread is a goldmine of information! Does anyone have recommendations for natural pigments that work well with these historical recipes? I’m particularly interested in achieving vibrant colors without compromising on eco-friendliness.
2 Likes
@DIYDreamer, I’ve had great results with Earth Pigments. They offer a wide range of colors, and their pigments are all-natural and eco-friendly. For vibrant colors, I recommend starting with a small amount and gradually adding more until you reach the desired intensity. It’s amazing how a little goes a long way!
3 Likes